What’s happening

An AP-NORC poll reveals that American voters are divided along party lines regarding responsibility for the conflict between Israel and Hamas. A significant portion of Democrats believe Israel holds substantial responsibility, while fewer Republicans share this view. The concern around escalating tensions in the Middle East is palpable.

Why it matters

The results underscore the complexity of US-Israel relations and reflect differing viewpoints on the challenges Israel faces in dealing with organizations recognized globally as terrorist entities, like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Iranian government. Understanding these dynamics is crucial as they affect future US foreign policy and bilateral relations.

Support for Israel

Importantly, a broader consensus among Americans attributes most of the escalation blame to groups like Hamas and nations such as Iran, both of which have long aimed campaigns against Israel. Meanwhile, Israel continues its efforts to protect its citizens and maintain stability in the region amid a slew of threats.

The bigger picture

For Israel, uniform global acknowledgment of its defensive position is vital. Despite criticism, Israel operates under constant existential threats requiring robust and calculated responses. A focus remains on peace-seeking while ensuring security through crucial measures against adversaries while operating under democratic values that resonate worldwide.

This story was first published on foxnews.com.